Enjoy these 10 once-in-a-lifetime experiences in Slovenia

Under-the-radar Slovenia, offers a multitude of unique experiences for the traveller. (Handout photo)

From exploring seven castles in a single day to foraging for wild mushrooms in the forest or feeding salt to native sheep in the mountains, these extraordinary experiences you can have in Slovenia that promise to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Follow the enchanting route of The Seven Castles of Posavje

Experience a boutique tour that blends inspiring green views, rich cultural heritage and exceptional culinary delights. Visit seven castles in one day, each with its own unique story, offering breathtaking scenery and a deep dive into the region’s history. Savour top-class castle cuisine, meticulously crafted by Posavje’s finest chefs using authentic local ingredients, and paired with the region’s best wines. This tour promises an unforgettable fusion of natural beauty, historical exploration and gourmet pleasures. Enhance your adventure with activities such as a chocolate workshop, leisurely strolls through impeccably maintained aristocratic parks, creating your own graphics at the Kostanjevica na Krki Monastery printing house and a visit to Countess Mathilde at the majestic Sevnica Castle.

Become a master of seafood: Join a Mediterranean fish cooking workshop with Irena Fonda

In the enchanting setting of Fonda Fish Garden, just steps away from the Sečovlje Salt Pans and the sea, join a small group workshop to master the art of cooking fish and seafood. This four-hour experience is led by Irena Fonda, a biologist and passionate cook, who will guide you through the essentials of selecting and preparing the freshest seafood, especially sea bass. Learn to identify high-quality ingredients, clean and fillet fish and create exquisite dishes like fish soup, carpaccio, sashimi and smoked sea bass appetizers. Under the pine trees by the sea, you will craft seasonal delicacies, gaining both culinary skills and marine biology insights.

Feed salt to local sheep while hiking with an experienced mountaineer above Češka koča

Embark on a memorable journey through the timeless shepherding trails of Jezersko alongside an expert mountaineer. Join the renowned Alpine climber Drejc, as he guides you to the high pastures beneath the majestic north face of Grintovec. Trek through the rugged terrain above Češka koča mountain hut in search of the indigenous Jezersko-Solčava sheep, offering them salt from your hand amidst the breathtaking alpine scenery. Along the way, Drejc shares captivating tales of mountain life, enriching your experience with his vast knowledge of mountaineering. After the hike, enjoy a hearty shepherd’s meal on the terrace of Češka koča, a historic symbol of Slovenian mountain culture dating back to 1900.

Sign up for an underground kayaking adventure at Mount Peca

Embark on a thrilling underground adventure as you paddle through the flooded and narrow tunnels of the largest lead and zinc mine in this part of Europe. Your journey begins with a ride on an original mining train, travelling through a 3.5-kilometre mine shaft to reach the Union Slope Tunnel. Descend 91 meters down the steps and change into protective equipment before embarking on your kayaking expedition. Paddle through an underground river and navigate small lakes 700 metres below the earth’s surface, exploring a maze of flooded tunnels and excavation sites. Your guide, a former miner, will share fascinating insights into the geological history of the area.

Go mushrooming in the forest with Dr. Fungi

An enchanting woodland adventure with Dr. Fungi awaits you. Led by a licensed mycologist passionate about mushrooms, explore the forest to uncover Slovenia’s five most common edible mushrooms, learning to distinguish between safe and toxic varieties while delving into their life cycles. This sensory journey blends education with playful exploration, as you hunt for hidden treasures amidst the rustling leaves and fragrant earth. Discover wild herbs and their medicinal properties along the way. After your adventure, enjoy an authentic mushroom lunch at the local restaurant Mars, where discussions and presentations on medicinal mushrooms await, along with natural remedies and elixirs crafted from these forest treasures.

Experience the mystique of Lake Cerknica with a local naturalist

Discover the ever-changing marvel of Lake Cerknica, one of the largest intermittent lakes in Europe, on an intimate tour with a knowledgeable local naturalist. Witness the lake’s transformation from a vast expanse of water to lush meadows and marshes, teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Explore the surrounding karst landscape, learning about the geological phenomena that cause the lake’s unique cycle. Engage in birdwatching, spot rare amphibians, and hear stories of the mythical creatures believed to inhabit this enchanting area. Conclude your tour with a traditional Slovenian picnic by the lake, featuring locally sourced delicacies.

Discover the art of Beekeeping and honey tasting in the Slovenian countryside

Immerse yourself in the world of apiculture with a hands-on beekeeping workshop in the picturesque Slovenian countryside. Under the guidance of a seasoned beekeeper, don a protective suit and delve into the workings of a beehive. Learn about the lifecycle of bees, the production of honey and the vital role these insects play in our ecosystem. After your beekeeping session, indulge in a honey tasting, sampling a variety of honeys infused with local herbs and flowers. Pair your sweet treats with artisanal cheeses and homemade bread, all while enjoying the serene surroundings around the apiary.

Go on a truffle-hunting expedition in the forests of Istria

Join a seasoned truffle hunter and their trained dog on an exhilarating truffle hunting expedition in the dense forests of Istria. Venture into the heart of nature, where you will learn about the history and significance of truffle hunting in Slovenia. Participate in the thrilling search for these prized underground fungi, guided by the keen nose of the truffle dog. After your hunt, savour a gourmet meal featuring freshly unearthed truffles, prepared by a local chef.

Pair stargazing with a folklore night at Velika Planina

Escape to the alpine pastures of Velika Planina for a magical evening of stargazing and folklore. As night falls, gather around a traditional Slovenian herdsman’s hut and listen to captivating stories of local myths and legends. Guided by an experienced astronomer, observe the celestial wonders through telescopes and binoculars, identifying constellations, planets and distant galaxies in the clear mountain sky. Enjoy a rustic dinner of shepherd’s fare, including hearty stews and fresh dairy products, while sharing tales and songs around the fire.

Go on an alpine flower hike in the Julian Alps

Embark on a picturesque hike through the Julian Alps, focusing on the region’s diverse and vibrant alpine flora. Led by a knowledgeable botanist, this guided trek takes you through lush meadows and rocky slopes, where you’ll encounter an array of wildflowers, including rare and endemic species. Learn about the ecological importance of these plants and their traditional uses in local medicine and cuisine. The hike includes a visit to the Alpine Botanical Garden Juliana, where you can see a curated collection of native alpine plants. Conclude your adventure with a picnic lunch featuring foraged herbs and locally produced specialities, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.

ENS Editors

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